Post 23 struggles with Post 300 in loss

CHILLICOTHE—Post 23 coach Jack Branon was hoping his team would find a way to bounce back Wednesday afternoon after being swept in Tuesday’s doubleheader to open the season.

Instead, Post 23 was held to a run on two hits and were defeated by Napoleon Post 300 15-1 in a nine-inning game at VA Memorial Stadium that was halted in the seventh because of the mercy rule.

“It’s like playing the best teams in the SOC II every day,” Branon said. “They’ve got to get used to that.”

Post 300 got to Trevar Welch early, recording nine runs off seven hits in 1 2/3 innings before he was pulled. Branon didn’t feel the loss was totally all on his starter.

“Defensively, we’ve got to make plays,” Branon said.

Post 23’s lone run came in the fifth when Alex Shears’ RBI double scored Daulton Kenyon. Shears recorded both hits for the team.

After losses of 10-6 and 10-0 at Beverly/Lowell Post 389/750 to start the season that included 10 errors, Post 23 was charged with two more miscues Wednesday.

Although Branon’s bunch is missing six players from this current roster for various reasons, he hopes those currently playing can take advantage of opportunities.

“We’re not playing smart,” Branon said. “We’re not hitting well with men on base.”

Post 23 will take the day off Thursday and return to practice Friday before the home opener Saturday with Athens Post 21. After the twin bill, Post 23 will host back-to-back defending champion Circleville Post 134 for a Sunday doubleheader.

Cody Leist can be reached at 353-3101, ext. 294, or cleist@civitasmedia.com. For breaking sports news, follow Cody on Twitter @CodyLeist.